Glipizide
Glucotrol is a brand-name sulfonylurea medication used to manage type 2 diabetes by helping control blood sugar levels. It is typically prescribed alongside diet and exercise when lifestyle changes alone are insufficient. This medication is not suitable for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Glucotrol is a diabetes medication that helps lower blood sugar by stimulating insulin release from the pancreas.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203680
- Generic
- Glucotrol
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Glucotrol is indicated for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when diet and exercise alone do not provide adequate blood sugar control. It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic medications such as metformin.
Glucotrol (active ingredient: glipizide) belongs to the sulfonylurea class of medications. It works by binding to ATP-sensitive potassium channels on pancreatic beta cells, causing the cells to release more insulin. This increased insulin production helps lower blood glucose levels.
Common side effects may include hypoglycemia, weight gain, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Patients should take Glucotrol 30 minutes before a meal for optimal effectiveness. It is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to sulfonylureas and should be used with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment. Patients should monitor their blood sugar regularly and be aware of signs of low blood sugar.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy